We all want that “magic serum, lotion, or potion to get rid of or prevent wrinkles, but how do you know what really works? Every person who comes to Simply Skin and inquires about wrinkles is advised to begin treatment with Topical Vitamin A or Retinol.
Retinol is a product that belongs to a class of topical medications called Retinoids, which is the most used and most studied anti-aging compound in the world.
Retinoids work to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, increase the production of collagen, improves the skin’s elasticity, and stimulates the production of new blood vessels. It takes between three to six months of regular use to begin to see a difference, but it has been proven to never stop working, so it is your skin’s friend for life.
Tretinoin, which is prescribed by a physician, is the first retinoid used for treating acne, and then it was noticed that it faded dark spots, smoothed dry patches, and diminished fine lines and wrinkles. The problem is – it causes significant skin dryness and irritation, so it has poor tolerability.
Retinols, on the other hand, slowly convert retinol to retinoic acid, which is the active ingredient found in the prescription version and are not as intense nor cause the same amount of irritation. Although, it may take a little longer to see the wrinkle reducing with retinol, these are more easily tolerated and can be used indefinitely.
But here’s the catch:
There are over the counter and medical grade Retinols. Over the counter retinols found at salons, drug stores, grocery stores, and retail beauty stores are very weak and cause no irritation. They also are not nearly as effective – no matter how long you use them.
Medical Grade retinols are 20 times more potent, do not require a prescription, but are only found at med spas or under physician supervision. Medical grade retinol, which may be time-released, has added peptides, antioxidants, and other anti-aging ingredients but are effective for the long term with anti-aging benefits without irritation.
At Simply Skin, we are particular to three Medical Grade Retinols.
The first two are Skin Medica Age Defense Retinol and Allastin Retinol Renewal which both have medical studies to prove their beneficial effect on skin. They are strong enough to show real results, yet not so strong that it irritates the skin. These are effective and well-balanced retinol products and affordable options for investing in your skin.
For super sensitive skin, we also carry Avene Retrinal, which is also medical grade and is effective in improving skin health and appearance.
We only use Retinols at night as the product will break down in light, and nighttime is when we regenerate our skin.
Retinoids are not used in pregnant women and will cause sun sensitivity, so daily use of SPF 30+ sunscreen is imperative. For those who are extremely sensitive, the sandwich effect of applying moisturizer, Retinol, and additional moisturizer at night has been popular to stop retinol irritation.
Dr. Hoffmeier and the staff at Simply Skin are available to assist you with selecting the right skin care regimen to suit your specific skin type and concerns. Consultations are free, so what are you waiting for? Call Simply Skin Today to start your wrinkle-free skin care regimen! 814-227-2362.
